Manchester City opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 win over 10-man Napoli at the Etihad Stadium. In the man city vs napoli clash Erling Haaland scored his 50th Champions League goal while Jeremy Doku impressed with a brilliant second strike. The match also featured Kevin De Bruyne’s emotional return to Manchester City’s home ground after his summer exit.
Napoli started with a low block aiming to absorb City pressure and counterattack. Their plans were disrupted when Giovanni Di Lorenzo fouled Erling Haaland resulting in a VAR-reviewed red card. The dismissal left Napoli with ten men midway through the first half. City dominated possession thereafter and gradually increased the pressure on the Italian side’s defense.
Kevin De Bruyne was given a hero’s welcome as he returned to Etihad Stadium. Fans displayed banners and applauded his contributions to Manchester City over the last decade.
The Belgian midfielder was substituted early due to the red card incident but still left a memorable impression. De Bruyne’s return added emotion and narrative to the Champions League opener.
City created numerous opportunities in the first half with Vanja Milinkovic-Savic making important saves. Tijani Reijnders and Rodri tested Napoli’s goalkeeper while Josko Gvardiol’s header was another threat. Despite early chances from City Napoli’s defensive resilience kept the scoreline 0-0 until the second half. The red card gradually shifted the balance in City’s favor.
Phil Foden assisted Haaland with a perfectly lofted pass allowing the Norwegian striker to score. Haaland reached his 50th Champions League goal in just 49 appearances a new record for the competition. Jeremy Doku added a second goal dribbling past four Napoli defenders to seal the victory.
Napoli’s New Era and De Bruyne’s Influence
Napoli manager Antonio Conte has built a more possession-based system with new signings including Rasmus Hojlund. Kevin De Bruyne’s presence is seen as a key factor in enhancing Napoli’s attacking dynamics this season.
- Rasmus Hojlund Victor Osimhen Scott McTominay Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Edinson Cavani
- Erling Haaland Jeremy Doku Phil Foden Kevin De Bruyne Vanja Milinkovic-Savic
Former Manchester United players Scott McTominay and Hojlund have also adapted well to Conte’s system providing additional firepower and creativity. De Bruyne’s technical skills complement the Italian side’s evolving style.
Pep Guardiola praised his squad’s performance and composure. He highlighted the attacking trio of Haaland Foden and Doku noting their form going into the upcoming Premier League clash against Arsenal. Guardiola emphasized the team’s confidence and strong body language. He described the victory as a morale booster and a demonstration of City’s potential in both domestic and European competitions.
